On or after May 12, 2025, the City of Chattanooga will submit a request to the Department of Housing and Urban Development, Community Planning and Development Office for the release of: Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), Title I of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974, as amended, to undertake the following project:
Tier 1 Broad Review Project/Program Title: Repair and/or Rehabilitation of Public Facilities
Purpose: This Tier 1 will allow for an expedited environmental review process for the rehabilitation of public facilities.
Location: Projects can be located anywhere within the corporate limits of the City of Chattanooga, TN.
Project/Program Description: Projects evaluated under this review for compliance with 24 CFR Part 58 shall consist of repair and/or rehabilitation, of existing public facilities meeting the following requirements and limitations:
• The facilities and improvements are in place and will not be changed in size or capacity by more than 20 percent; and
• The activity does not involve a change in land use, such as from non-residential to residential, commercial to industrial, or from one industrial use to another.
• expansion of buildings and/or installation of site improvements is permitted if: o the resulting footprints for either structures or site improvements will not occupy, nor will work impact, the floodplain or a wetland
The scope of work may include any of the following:
• repairs or replacement of: o cosmetic finishes
o structural components
o doors and windows
o interior or exterior envelope
o electrical, mechanical, and plumbing systems
o installation of needed site improvements (e.g. driveways, exterior lighting, fencing, land scaping, parking lots, etc.) that otherwise comply with the restrictions noted above
o utility lines and connections
o scraping/retarring/relining existing parking lots
• Expansion or additions to existing buildings that otherwise comply with the restrictions noted above
• ADA upgrades
The exact scope of work for individual projects will be described within the associated “Site-Specific Checklist.”
Tier 2 site specific reviews will be completed for those laws and authorities not addressed in the Tier 1 broad review for each address under this program when addresses become known.
Level of Environmental Review Citation: Categorically Excluded per 24 CFR 58.35(a), and subject to laws and authorities at §58.5: 58.35(a)(3)(iii)
Tier 2 Site Specific Review: The site-specific reviews will cover the following laws and authorities not addressed in the Tier 1 broad review:
Flood Insurance (Flood Disaster Protection Act of 1973 and National Flood Insurance Reform Act of 1994 [42 USC 4001-4128 and 42 USC 5154a])
The Flood Disaster Protection Act of 1973 (42 U.S.C. 4012a) requires that projects receiving federal assistance and located in an area identified by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) as being within a Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHA) be covered by flood insurance under the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). In order to be able to purchase flood insurance, the community must be participating in the NFIP. If the community is not participating in the NFIP, federal assistance cannot be used in those areas.
Hamilton County, Tennessee is a participant in the National Flood Insurance Program.
Staff will use a combination of Federal Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) and the City of Chattanooga GIS System with floodplain layers to determine if any proposed projects are located in the floodplain. The County GIS system with FEMA floodplain overlay will be consulted in cases where the property is in the 100-year floodplain and a closer look is needed to determine if the actual structure(s) are in the floodplain.
Hazards, Toxic or Radioactive Materials and Substances (24 CFR Part 50.3(i) & 58.5(i)(2)])
It is HUD policy, as described in 24 CFR Part 50.3(i) and 24 CFR 58.5(i)(2), that:
1. All property proposed for use in HUD programs be free of hazardous materials, contamination, toxic chemicals and gasses, and radioactive substances, where a hazard could affect the health and safety of occupants or conflict with the intended utilization of the property.
2. Particular attention should be given to any proposed site on or in the general proximity of such areas as dumps, landfills, industrial sites, or other locations that contain, or may have contained, hazardous wastes.
3. The responsible entity shall use current techniques by qualified professionals to undertake investigations determined necessary
All activities will be reviewed for toxic hazards to varying extents, based on the specific activity. This category includes radon, lead-based paint, as well as visible distress to the property, settlement ponds, Brownfields, etc. The City will refer to the One CPD Environmental website for a NEPA map for potential sources of contaminants near projects. Additional consultation may be required with various state or local agencies.
For properties built prior to 1978, applicability of 24 CFR Part 35, State and local requirements for rehabilitation of properties containing lead-based paint or asbestos-containing materials (LBP or ACM) will be described, and documentation evidencing compliance will be attached to the ERR.
EPA’s EnviroAtlas will be consulted to see if a project site falls within the South Chattanooga Lead Superfund Site (SCLS).
Phase 1 Site Assessment will be required if the property has not had one in the past 6-12 months.
Radon testing will be required following the ANSI/AARST standard.
Endangered Species (Endangered Species Act of 1973, particularly section 7; 50 CFR Part 402)
The environmental review must consider potential impacts of the HUD-assisted project to endangered and threatened species and critical habitats. The review must evaluate potential impacts not only to any listed but also to any proposed endangered or threatened species and critical habitats. This responsibility is cited in environmental procedures at 24 CFR 58.5(e) and 24 CFR 50.4 (e).
Consultation with Fish and Wildlife will be initiated through the IPaC system. A species list and determination will be pulled from the system. Any species that are not covered under the determination letter will be sent to Fish and Wildlife for a follow-up consultation, if warranted. As a standard, any rehabilitation project that will be removing more than one tree that has indications of potentially suitable habitat (large deep nooks, shaggy bark, evidence of guano) will be required to remove the trees between the months of October and March, to avoid bat breeding and roosting season.
Sites will be evaluated to determine if they are potential habitat for the endangered and threatened native plants. Bald Eagle nest sites will be checked to determine if the project is at least 600 feet from the nearest nest site.
Explosive and Flammable Operations (24 CFR Part 51 Subpart C)
There are inherent potential dangers associated with locating HUD-assisted projects near hazardous facilities which store, handle, or process hazardous substances of a flammable or explosive nature. Project sites located too close to facilities handling, storing or processing conventional fuels, hazardous gases or chemicals of an explosive or flammable nature may expose occupants or end-users of a project to the risk of injury in the event of a fire or an explosion.
To address this risk, regulations at 24 CFR Part 51 Subpart C require HUD-assisted projects to be separated from these facilities by a distance that is based on the contents and volume of the aboveground storage tank, or to implement mitigation measures.
The staff will search and map all the above ground storage tanks within a one-mile radius of the site and determine the Acceptable Safe Distance (ASD) with the use of the HUD ASD Calculator. Tank contents and size will be obtained from tank owners and stored for future use.
Liquid petroleum tanks of 1,000 gallons or less will be checked to see if they were installed after April 17, 2025 and that they comply with NFPA 58 (2020). Propane tanks located on the property will need to be brought up to the current code.
Floodplain Management (Executive Order 11988, particularly section 2(a); 24 CFR Part 55)
Executive Order (EO) 11988 – Floodplain Management – requires Federal activities to avoid impacts to floodplains and to avoid direct and indirect support of floodplain development to the extent practicable.
EO 13690 – Establishing a Federal Flood Risk Management Standard (FFRMS) and a Process for Further Soliciting and Considering Stakeholder Input – revised EO 11988 and established a new FFRMS to address current and future flood risk, improve resiliency, and ensure that projects funded with taxpayer dollars last as long as intended. EO 14030 – Climate-Related Financial Risk – subsequently furthered measures to address climate-related financial risk.
HUD’s regulations in 24 CFR Part 55 outline HUD’s procedures for complying with EO 11988, EO 13690, and EO 14030. HUD’s Final Rule to implement FFRMS was published on April 23, 2024. The Final Rule defines a new floodplain of concern, the FFRMS floodplain, which extends beyond the 100-year floodplain. The Final Rule also defines the viable approaches to determining the extent of the FFRMS floodplain designed to account for increased flood risk over time. The Final Rule requires an increased elevation for new construction and substantially improved structures in the FFRMS floodplain and provides other clarifications and updates.
The Federal Flood Risk Management Standard (FFRMS) system will be consulted to analyze CISA data (for at least 30 years out for rehabilitation) to determine if any proposed projects are located in the floodplain.
If CISA data is not available, staff will consult the FEMA map for the area and refer to the 500-year floodplain (0.2PFA) method.
For repair, rehabilitation, and modernization projects located in a floodplain, that do not meet the definition of substantial improvement, per HUD’s definition at 24 CFR Part 55.2(b)(12), the 5-Step may occur if the following conditions are met at 55.14(c).
For all projects covered under this Tier 1 review that do meet the definition of “substantial improvement” per 24 CFR Part 55.2(b)(12), the 8-Step Decision Making Process for Floodplains will be applicable.
Historic Properties (National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, particularly sections 106 and 110; 36 CFR Part 800)
The National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA), 16 U.S.C. 470 et seq., directs each federal agency, and those tribal, state, and local governments that assume federal agency responsibilities, to protect historic properties and to avoid, minimize, or mitigate possible harm that may result from agency actions. The review process, known as Section 106 review, is detailed in 36 CFR Part 800. Early consideration of historic places in project planning and full consultation with interested parties are key to effective compliance with Section 106. The State Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO) and/or Tribal Historic Preservation Officer (THPO) are primary consulting parties in the process. A qualified historic preservation consultant may assist with the technical components of the Section 106 review process.
Tribes listed in HUD TDAT database will be consulted for rehabilitation projects with significant soil disturbance.
All assisted activities require Section 106 review except projects that are exempt or ‘categorically excluded not subject to’ under HUD regulations (24 CFR Parts 50 and 58) or that are determined by HUD to have “No potential to Affect Historic Properties” as defined at 36 CFR 800.3.
The City will consult with the State Historic Preservation Officer on all projects via the approved designated method. The City will submit a prepared SHPO packet complete with maps (Google, GIS, Topographic, Historical Commission), scope of work and/or site plans, project description, Area of Potential Effect (APE) properties and ages, and photos.
Any changes in the scope of work will be submitted to the SHPO for review.
Noise (Noise Control Act of 1972, as amended by the Quiet Communities Act of 1978; 24 CFR Part 51 Subpart B)
HUD’s noise standards may be found in 24 CFR Part 51, Subpart B. Consideration of noise applies to the acquisition of undeveloped land and existing development, in addition to new construction.
All sites whose environmental or community noise exposure exceeds the day night average sound level (DNL) of 65 decibels (dB) are considered noise-impacted areas. For new construction that is proposed in high noise areas, grantees shall incorporate noise attenuation features to the extent required by HUD environmental criteria and standards
contained in Subpart B (Noise Abatement and Control) of 24 CFR Part 51. The interior standard is 45 dB.
Per the Noise Abatement worksheet, there is an option to have standardized noise attenuation measures that apply to all modernization and/or minor rehabilitation projects. The City developed a document to this effect called “Rehabilitation Standards for Noise for HUD Funded Projects” (“Rehab Standards for Noise”) (Attachment M) which lays out standard requirements for all rehabilitations that will not increase density. Exceptions to these standards include:
• Historic properties that require a like-for-like replacement.
• Projects that will only be replacing the roof. These are not subject to noise mitigation for the following reasons:
a. The program scope and budget of the project will not allow for additional activities to miti gate noise.
b. The need to sustain existing affordable housing stock is great in Chattanooga and it is in the City’s best interest to rehabilitate as many homes as possible, versus spending more on less in the interest of mitigating existing noise situations.
c. Noise levels are primarily from road and rail sources and therefore mitigating the roof for noise will have no measurable impact DNL levels.
Staff will conduct a preliminary noise screening during the CEST environmental review to confirm the presence of noise generators within the vicinity.
Feasibility and cost-effectiveness of applicable mitigation measures will be determined based on the project scope and available funding.
Staff will record all standardized noise attenuation measures implemented in the Environmental Review Record (ERR).
Wetlands Protection (Executive Order 11990, particularly sections 2 and 5)
Executive Order 11990: Protection of Wetlands requires Federal activities to avoid adverse impacts to wetlands where practicable.
HUD’s Final Rule to implement the Federal Flood Risk Management Standard (FFRMS), published on April 23, 2024, updates 24 CFR Part 55. The new Part 55 preserves many of the wetlands requirements of the prior rule, with some modification and clarification. HUD or Responsible Entities (REs) must identify whether a proposed action is located in a wetland, impacts a wetland, or occurs in proximity to wetlands as defined in 55.9. As a primary screening, HUD or REs shall consult the National Wetlands Inventory (NWI) map and assess the site for visual indication of wetlands.
The City will consult the Wetlands Mapper on the One CPD Environmental website for wetlands designations, and the USDA Web Soil Survey for Hydric Soil ratings. To comply with the Executive Order, the City will adhere to Executive Order 11990, specifically Sections 2 and 5.
Where the primary screening is inconclusive, further evaluation is required and may include, but is not limited to:
• Consultation with the Department of Interior, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS)
• Reference to the Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Web Soil Survey, and Tribal, state, or local information on wetlands within the action area and field identification of the biological, rather than jurisdictional, characteristics of wetlands
• Evaluation by a qualified scientist to delineate wetland boundaries on the project site
Mitigation Measures/Conditions/Permits (if any):
Flood Insurance (Flood Disaster Protection Act of 1973 and National Flood Insurance Reform Act of 1994 [42 USC 4001-4128 and 42 USC 5154a])
Properties in the 100-year floodplain will be required to have NFIP flood insurance for the life of the loan or life of the property where funding is a grant.
Hazards, Toxic or Radioactive Materials and Substances (24 CFR Part 50.3(i) & 58.5(i)(2)])
If a project is located within the SCLS, testing and any required cleanup must occur but work can commence as long as no soil will be disturbed. Final clearance of work will be added to the ERR.
Lead-based paint and asbestos will be addressed and removed per applicable regulations.
Endangered Species (Endangered Species Act of 1973, particularly section 7; 50 CFR Part 402)
As a standard, any rehabilitation project that will be removing more than one tree that has indications of potentially suitable habitat (large deep nooks, shaggy bark, evidence of guano) will be required to remove the trees between the months of October and March, to avoid bat breeding and roosting season.
Explosive and Flammable Operations (24 CFR Part 51 Subpart C)
Mitigation may take the form of relocating a tank (if possible) or creating a barrier between the tank and the property.
Floodplain Management (Executive Order 11988, particularly section 2(a); 24 CFR Part 55)
Projects will be subject to any mitigation outlined in the 5 or 8-step process, as applicable.
Restrictive covenants will be implemented as necessary per the regulations.
All substantial rehabilitation projects will have to adhere to the City’s Code of Ordinances for Flood Hazard Zones located in Chapter 38 of the Chattanooga TN Code of Ordinances (see Attachment K) to the extent possible, to ensure protecting from future flood damage.
Historic Properties (National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, particularly sections 106 and 110; 36 CFR Part 800)
If the project is eligible or included on the National Register of Historic Places, the City must receive a finding of "no adverse effect" from the State Historic Preservation Officer for the proposed scope of work before any work may proceed on the project. If required, a “Certificate of Appropriateness” will be obtained for activities located in nationally recognized historic neighborhoods. In addition, any historic neighborhood plans and guidelines will also be followed.
Noise (Noise Control Act of 1972, as amended by the Quiet Communities Act of 1978; 24 CFR Part 51 Subpart B)
Noise mitigation will be required for projects changing the envelope of the home. Mitigation is detailed in the City’s Rehab Standards for Noise. Mitigation is outlined for windows, doors, walls, roofing, exterior wall treatments, openings and gaps, and ventilation and utility openings.
Wetlands Protection (Executive Order 11990, particularly sections 2 and 5)
If the staff member determines that there is no practicable alternative to the use of wetlands for the specified project, the City will act to reduce adverse impacts. In this case, an eight-step review process required by Executive Order 11990 will be performed by the CD staff.
Permits
All applicable City construction permits (electrical, plumbing, etc) will be required.
| Estimated Project Cost: Grant Number | HUD Program | Program Name | Funding Amount |
| FY 2025 to FY 2029 | CDBG | Rehabilitation of Single-Family Homes | $500,000 |
Estimated Total HUD Funded Amount: $500,000
Estimated Total Project Cost (HUD and non-HUD funds) [24 CFR 58.32(d)]: minimum $1,000,000
The activity/activities proposed are categorically excluded under HUD regulations at 24 CFR Part 58 from National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) requirements per 58.35(a)(3)(iii). An Environmental Review Record (ERR) that documents the environmental determinations for this project is on file at City of Chattanooga, Department of Economic Development, 101 E 11th Street, Suite 200, Chattanooga, TN 37402 and may be examined or copied weekdays 8 A.M to 4 P.M. or in HEROS at https://cpd.hud.gov/cpd-public/environmental-reviews reference HEROS number 900000010460551.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Any individual, group, or agency may submit written comments on the ERR to the City of Chattanooga, Department of Economic Development, Attention Regina Partap, 101 E 11th Street, Suite 200, Chattanooga, TN 37402. All comments received by May 10, 2025, will be considered by the City of Chattanooga prior to authorizing submission of a request for release of funds.
ENVIRONMENTAL CERTIFICATION
The City of Chattanooga certifies to HUD that Richard Beeland, Certifying Officer Designee, in his capacity as Administrator, Economic Development consents to accept the jurisdiction of the Federal Courts if an action is brought to enforce responsibilities in relation to the environmental review process and that these responsibilities have been satisfied. HUD’s approval of the certification satisfies its responsibilities under NEPA and related laws and authorities and allows the City of Chattanooga to use HUD program funds.
OBJECTIONS TO RELEASE OF FUNDS
HUD will accept objections to its release of fund and the City of Chattanooga’s certification for a period of fifteen days following the anticipated submission date or its actual receipt of the request (whichever is later) only if they are on one of the following bases: (a) the certification was not executed by the Certifying Officer of the City of Chattanooga; (b) the City of Chattanooga has omitted a step or failed to make a decision or finding required by HUD regulations at 24 CFR part 58; (c) the grant recipient or other participants in the development process have committed funds, incurred costs or undertaken activities not authorized by 24 CFR Part 58 before approval of a release of funds by HUD; or (d) another Federal agency acting pursuant to 40 CFR Part 1504 has submitted a written finding that the project is unsatisfactory from the standpoint of environmental quality. Objections must be prepared and submitted in accordance with the required procedures (24 CFR Part 58, Sec. 58.76) and shall be addressed to HUD at HUD Knoxville Field Office, John J. Duncan Federal Building at 710 Locust Street, Suite 300, Knoxville, TN 37902. Potential objectors should contact HUD to verify the actual last day of the objection period.
Richard Beeland, Administrator, Economic Development, Certifying Officer Designee